Bidding Adieu to the W12: The End of an Era for Bentley's Iconic Engine

Bentley Motors has officially signed off on an era defined by its revered W12 engine. After more than two decades of luxury performance and engineering brilliance, the highly regarded W12 are no longer in production, making way for a new generation of electrified performance. Over the years, the W12 has become synonymous with Bentley’s prowess in crafting high-performance grand tourers, luxury sedans, and opulent SUVs, with over 100,000 models graced by its power since its introduction in 2003.

A Journey Through the W12's Legacy

The W12 engine, which first made its debut in the Bentley Continental GT, was a remarkable feat of engineering that fused two V6 engines, distinguished by a common crankshaft. This innovative design resulted in a motor that was 24% shorter than conventional V12s, making it more compact and efficiently integrated into the luxury vehicles for which it was designed. Notably, the engine pumped out an impressive 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, allowing vehicles to reach near-supercar levels of performance. With the 0-60 mph dash achievable in just 3.5 seconds, Bentley’s W12 was not merely about luxury; it delivered adrenaline as well.

A Grand Farewell

As the final W12-powered vehicles rolled off the assembly line in Crewe, England, Bentley took the poignant step of hosting a celebratory lunch in honor of the teams that brought this engineering marvel to life. Employees received specially designed W12 engine pistons as keepsakes, marking their contribution to an engine that had significantly shaped the brand's identity. The heartfelt tribute acknowledged the W12's pivotal role in the company’s evolution, serving as a key component that propelled Bentley into modern luxury performance car territory, and adding a new chapter in automotive history.

The Evolution of Power

Since its inception, the W12 underwent numerous enhancements that bolstered its performance metrics while addressing crucial environmental concerns. In 2015, nostalgic fans saw a revamped W12 that incorporated turbochargers with quicker response times, a refined fuel system for lower emissions, and an innovative cylinder deactivation system for improved fuel economy. These enhancements led to a remarkable 34% gain in power, a 54% increase in torque, and a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions—a true example of engineering excellence meeting modern sustainability.

Enter the Electrified V8

While fans of the W12 take a moment to reflect, Bentley has already unveiled its successor—an electrified 4.0-liter V8 engine. This remarkable powerhouse may be smaller than its 12-cylinder predecessor, but it packs a punch, generating up to 771 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The V8 not only matches the performance level of the W12, but offers a hybrid option that reflects the luxury brand’s commitment to sustainability without sacrificing performance.

The Future of Bentley's Luxury Engines

With the introduction of this new powertrain, Bentley aims to merge luxury with environmental responsibility. The plug-in hybrid technology gives Bentley vehicles an impressive combined range of up to 500 miles, opening the door to a new chapter where future models will likely deliver even more astonishing performance metrics. The V8 debuted in the latest Continental GT Speed, showcasing the brand's innovative spirit as it looks ahead to the future bringing forth more limited-edition models boasting remarkable horsepower and a suite of high-end technologies designed to enhance the driving experience.

Reflecting on a True Icon

Bentley Motors now stands at the threshold of a modern automotive revolution, transforming traditional notions of power with a new generation of vehicles. As we bid farewell to the W12, we reflect on its contributions and how it revolutionized the brand's identity. "The W12 has played such an important role in the history of Bentley that it was only right for us to celebrate the engine's retirement with those linked to this powerplant," said Andreas Lehe, the board member responsible for manufacturing at Bentley. This validation of the W12’s legacy is a celebration of the past, even as we eagerly anticipate what’s next for one of automotive history’s most coveted brands.